Deadly ‘Bleeding Eye Disease’ Outbreak Sparks Global Concern
A new strain of the Marburg virus has ignited global alarms, causing concern over its deadly potential and rapid spread. This highly contagious disease, often referred to as the "bleeding eye disease" for its potentially terrifying symptoms, can lead to fatality in 50% of cases.
As of now, 66 cases and 15 deaths have been reported in Rwanda, with fears of underreporting. The World Health Organization (WHO) is closely monitoring the situation, warning that the virus can spread through contact with infected individuals or Egyptian rousette bats.
Understanding the Threat
Marburg virus disease, formerly known as Marburg hemorrhagic fever, is a severe, often fatal illness in humans. It presents itself in three phases:
-
Generalization Phase: Initial flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, and loss of appetite.
-
Early Organ Phase: Encephalitis, hemorrhages, and other severe organ manifestations.
- Late Organ/Convalescence Phase: Potential multi-organ failure, shock, coma, and either death or recovery.
Dr. Neha Mishra, a renowned infectious disease specialist at Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, explained, "The virus can spread through contact with bodily fluids, surfaces, or infected animals. Careful isolation of patients and rigorous hygiene practices are essential to curb its transmission. Travelers to affected areas should take necessary precautions."
Symptoms to Watch For
Early detection is crucial in managing the disease. Recognizing the symptoms is vital:
- Early symptoms (Day 1-5): High fever with chills, severe headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite.
- Later symptoms (Day 5-7): Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, sore throat, and a non-itchy rash.
- Extreme symptoms: Bleeding from gums, nose, injection sites, blood in bodily fluids (vomit, stool, urine), liver/kidney failure, jaundice, neurological symptoms, and septic shock.
Lack of Treatment Options:
Currently, there are no approved vaccines or specific antiviral drugs for Marburg virus disease. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and blood loss. Clinical trials on monoclonal antibodies are underway, but human trials are still in progress.
Dr. Harish Bhatia, Founder Director of Rebreathe Clinic and Senior Consultant Chest Specialist & Physician at Apollo Hospital emphasizes the importance of early intervention: "While a cure remains elusive, providing supportive care to manage symptoms can significantly improve a patient’s chances of survival."
Eye Care Concerns: The bleeding eye virus, as it’s popularly known, poses a particular risk to ocular health.
“The virus can cause red eyes, pain, swelling, and in severe cases, blood vessel rupture," said Dr. Satya Prasad Balki, Consultant Ophthalmologist & Medical Director at Truevision Eye Hospitals. "Avoiding eye contact, practicing good hygiene, and seeking professional medical attention immediately are crucial."
Origins and Global Response:
Marburg virus was first identified in 1967 during simultaneous outbreaks in Germany and Serbia, originally linked to lab work with African green monkeys. Sporadic cases have since been recorded in various African nations.
The WHO and national health authorities worldwide are urging vigilance and proactive measures to contain the spread of this deadly virus.
